WA premier takes up ice bucket challenge

West Australian Premier Colin Barnett has taken up the global "ice bucket challenge" sweeping social media to raise money for motor neurone disease organisations.

Mr Barnett said he knew a lot of people who wanted to dump a bucket of ice-cold water on him but he would do it for a good cause.

"Just another humiliating day for me," Mr Barnett said.

"If people contribute, that makes it worthwhile."

The premier will be doused on Friday, joining the growing number of Australian politicians to take part in the movement, including South Australian Treasurer Tom Koutsantonis and federal Liberal MP Josh Frydenberg.

The challenge aims to raise awareness about motor neurone disease, which causes muscles to shrink and weaken.

Participants who complete the challenge can nominate others to get wet and donate money to charities or researchers.